UDEMWO calls for police visibility in rural areas to fight crime against women, children

Ms Thandi NontenjaUDEMWO Secretary General

The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) is distraught by the rape and murder of a female student in Engcobo in the Eastern Cape. This time the victim was young Zikho Cabeni, who was also an active member of the United Democratic Students’ Movement. This horrifying incident comes just after the country “celebrated women” in the month of August.

We have learnt that nothing much has been done in terms of investigation and apprehending any suspects. This is heart-breaking and frustrating.

We also call upon those who may have any leads to solve this case to come forward. The police must stop dragging their feet and do an urgent but thorough investigation so that the culprit/s can be brought to book.

As UDEMWO, we stand for the rights of women and children and we feel that femicide and child homicide continues unabated and UDEMWO reiterates its call for greater police visibility and mobile police stations in the rural areas.

We wish to extend a message of condolence to Zikho’s family and friends. May they find comfort in this time of pain.